When my friend Regina, Haute Living’s Miami Editor, asked me if I was interested in writing a blog for the magazine, I instantly loved the idea. Haute Living is a special magazine; the kind that stays ahead of the curve, and can forecast what’s next before others. I knew my fans would love the magazine too.

For my very first blog entry, I wanted to share my recent experience with PETA with the haute readers. I have been a vegetarian for some time now, and I have to say, the transition has proved to be beneficial in ways I could have never imagined. My uncle Russell was my greatest inspiration, as he has been a vegan for over 10 years. His dedication and discipline have driven me throughout this change.

I grew up in a home where my meals were chosen for me; if steak was for dinner, I ate it. It wasn’t until meat made me physically ill one day, that I realized that a change in my diet was necessary. Initially, I felt as though I wasn’t getting enough protein in my diet. I didn’t realize how many other places we can find protein: such as beans, nuts and some grains. Today, becoming a vegetarian has made me feel great, I feel lighter and my skin is glowing.

I have always admired the PETA organization, so I approached them with an idea for a photo shoot for their Vegetarian campaign. I knew that doing a nude photo shoot would make a huge statement, and I was happy to help the PETA cause in any way I could. I was involved in every aspect of the shoot, from the theme to the photographer, as I knew that I wanted to be shot by a female.

My campaign was a great success. We celebrated the release in New York City, at a party DJ-ed by my friend, Samantha Ronson.

My collaboration with PETA was a monumental event in my life, and one that I will never forget. I hope my fans appreciated it too. Next up: Veganism! Stay tuned.